Emergencies can strike at any time, whether you’re ready or not. That’s why it’s so important to have an emergency kit ready at all times, and to understand what to keep in your emergency kit.
Here’s a list of items you should keep in your emergency kit:
Non-Perishable Food
If you can’t access the grocery store, your refrigerator goes out, or if some other unforeseen event takes place, you should have enough food to last you a few days.
Can Opener
Make sure you have a manual can opener to open up all of your non-perishable goods.
Water
The general rule of thumb is to have one gallon of water per person per day. So, make sure that you have enough to prevent everyone in your household from becoming dehydrated, which could take things from bad to worse very quickly.
Radio
Keep up with the news and alerts of whatever disaster has just struck with a battery-powered or hand-spun radio.
Flashlight and/or Candles
If the electricity is out, you’ll need to see what’s going on.
Extra Batteries
Depending on how long you’re in an emergency, your radio and flashlight will probably die. Keep enough extra batteries in your emergency kit to keep them going as long as you’ll need.
Wrench/Pliers
You never know exactly what sort of situation you’ll be in, so it’s best to have some sort of tool on you.
Medication
If any of your family members are on medication they absolutely need to take, try to get an extra prescription to keep on hand in case of an emergency.
First Aid Kit
Band-aids, antibiotic ointment, and antiseptic wipes are just a few things that need to be in your first-aid kit. The Red Cross has an extensive list of supplies you should keep in your first-aid kit.
Whistle
If you’re in a dangerous situation, you might need to alert someone to where you are, or call for help. Keep a whistle in your kit, just in case.
Dust Mask
Keep dust masks in case damage occurs to your home or whatever building you’re stuck in. Make sure that you have enough dust masks for your entire family to prevent breathing in any harmful chemicals and excessive dust particles.
Maps
Keep a few maps of the local area in case you’re in the car and have a dead phone. It’s a good idea to have a backup in the case your electronic navigation system isn’t working.
Battery/Solar Phone Charger
Keep your phone alive with a battery-powered or a solar phone charger. This one is important in case you need to call for help, or for directions to the nearest hotel or family member.
Toiletries
Having toiletries like toilet paper, toothbrushes, and toothpaste on hand can help keep everyone calm in an emergency.
Pet Food/Water/Supplies
If you have pets, look out for them and keep food and water on hand for them. A few toys and bones can help keep them busy and out of your hair in a stressful situation.
With these items in your emergency kit, you’ll be ready for it if an emergency strikes– no matter what. Make sure to keep your kit in something easy to carry, like a backpack or a waterproof container, and somewhere cool, dry and easily accessible, like a closet.
These are just the basics when it comes to what to keep in your emergency kit. You may want to add more items depending on you and your family’s specific needs. While it’s impossible to be completely prepared for an emergency situation, having these items on hand will help reduce stress and worry.